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New innovative and affordable degree

La Trobe University and NMIT (Northern Melbourne Institute of TAFE) will offer an innovative and affordable degree in agriculture and technology through an exciting new educational brand – Melbourne Polytechnic.

The new Bachelor of Agriculture and Technology will be delivered from NMIT’s Epping campus in 2014 and will use NMIT's Green Skills Centre plus agricultural facilities at NMIT’s Yan Yean training farm and Eden Park vineyard.

It is the first course offered under the game changing partnership between NMIT and La Trobe under the banner of Melbourne Polytechnic.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Agriculture and Technology will have their degree conferred by La Trobe University.

There will be 100 Commonwealth Supported Places available and the student contribution for the new Agriculture and Technology Degree is approximately 5 per cent less per year than in comparable agriculture courses taught by Australian universities for Australian students.

'Melbourne Polytechnic is a game changing opportunity to provide more effective, efficient and responsive higher education courses like the Bachelor of Agriculture and Technology,' said Professor John Dewar, Vice-Chancellor of La Trobe University.

Agribusiness, including farming and food processing makes up 12 per cent of the Australian economy, but there are significant workforce shortages in skilled labour1. The Bachelor of Agriculture and Technology degree is designed to contribute to the development of a professional workforce in agriculture.

The degree aims to prepare creative graduates who are 'work ready' for exciting careers in agriculture.

'The new degree will focus on industry needs and applied skills in agriculture and technology. It will be delivered at state-of-the-art facilities in partnership with industry. We have worked hard to make the degree attractive and affordable for students,' said Dr Andy Giddy, NMIT CEO.

The Bachelor of Agriculture and Technology at Melbourne Polytechnic aims to prepare creative graduates who are 'work ready' for exciting careers in agriculture.